Kewtech SMARTPAT

The most significant difference between the Smartpat and the Ezypat testers, is that it is WiFi enabled. This turns it from a manual type tester into a fully functional downloadable tester. When paired with the Kewpat app, the tester can be controlled from a phone or tablet. The test data is automatically stored along with other information such as the appliance id, description, location, site and customer details. The results can be exported in a pdf or csv file format. The Kewpat app is free to use and is available from Google Play or the Apple App Store.

The other difference between the Smartpat and the Ezypat testers is the portable RCD test. The Smartpat can test both 10mA and 30mA portable RCDs. The RCD test requires a mains supply connection, but unlike some other PAT testers, the Smartpat does not require an additional isolation transformer to prevent the supply side RCD tripping in the distribution board.

The Smartpat is powered by six AA batteries. The Kewtech specification gives a battery life of approximately 1,400 tests. From our own experience during our training courses, the battery life is excellent, but is likely to be slightly lower when used in continuous wifi mode.

The soft carry case has front and rear sections for storing the tester and accessories.

The silicone rubber test lead has an interchangeable crocodile clip and test probe and is a generous 2m in length, making it easy to reach around the back of a computer to attach the clip. Being able to swap out the normal clip for the test probe is useful for testing appliances with less accessible metal parts. The test lead has standard 4mm shrouded connectors, so replacing a lost attachment or cable in the future, shouldn’t be a problem.

The resistance of the test lead can be easily nulled by simply pressing and holding the null button for about 2 seconds. A brass earth pin is supplied to attach the test lead to the earth connection on the Smartpat.

The automatic test sequences can be initiated with a single button press on the Smartpat, or can be controlled using the app. The app also allows custom test sequences to be used. The earth continuity test is carried out at 200mA, so it can be safely used on all equipment without the risk of causing damage to sensitive electronic components. The insulation test can be set to either 500V or 250V. The 250V test can be used for equipment containing surge protection circuits that would otherwise result in a false fail at 500V.

A short red IEC lead is included for testing extension leads. The resistance of the IEC lead can also be nulled. For testing longer extension reels, using the customisable tests via the app makes things much easier as an allowance for the higher earth continuity limit can be preprogrammed.

The Smartpat can be connected to a mains supply to carry out a leakage and load test at the supply voltage. When on battery only power, a substitute leakage test at 30V is used. The mains supply connection is also required for the PRCD test.

The Smartpat can be connected to either a 230V or 110V supply. The leakage and load tests are carried out at the supply voltage, so when connected to a 110V supply, the tests are carried out at 110V. In this example we are using our 110V power adaptor (not included), to connect to the Smartpat to a 110V site transformer.